What to Expect During a Pre-Pointe Assessment with a Dance Podiatrist

Stepping Into Pointe Work: What Happens During a Pre-Pointe Assessment?

Starting en pointe is a major step in a ballet dancer’s journey — one that requires not just excitement, but preparation, maturity, and physical readiness. A professional pre-pointe assessment led by a podiatrist provides valuable insight into whether a dancer is ready to begin pointe work safely and successfully. Here’s what to expect from the process.

Why a Pre-Pointe Assessment Matters

Pointe work demands a high level of strength, control, and joint integrity. Even dancers who appear technically capable may have underlying biomechanical limitations or risk factors that only a detailed clinical assessment can reveal. A dance podiatrist specialises in assessing these needs and offers targeted, evidence-based advice to support a smooth and injury-free transition to pointe.

👕 What to Wear

To your pre-pointe assessment, dancers should wear:

• A leotard or fitted top and shorts – This allows the podiatrist to clearly observe posture, alignment, and movement.

• Hair neatly tied up – Ensures the neck and spine can be properly examined.

• Convertible dance tights (if worn) – The assessment is conducted barefoot, so easy foot access is important.

Comfortable and appropriate attire supports a thorough, unobstructed assessment of movement patterns and joint alignment.

🩰 What the Assessment Involves

The assessment is a comprehensive, one-on-one session that focuses on the physical requirements for pointe work in both ballet and contemporary dance. Here’s what it includes:

🧠 1. Health History and Dance Background

We begin by discussing the dancer’s training history, any previous injuries, goals, and teacher feedback.

🦴 2. Full-Body Alignment and Joint Health Check

We assess posture and joint mobility from head to toe, including:

• Spine

• Hips

• Knees

• Ankles

• Feet

We evaluate joint range of motion, anatomical alignment, and look for any signs of hypermobility or restriction.

💪 3. Strength and Stability Testing

Using a combination of clinical tests and dance-specific movements, we check for:

• Ankle and foot strength

• Core engagement and balance

• Pelvic stability

• Control in turnout and relevé

This helps us determine whether the dancer has enough strength to support the demands of pointe work.

🩰 4. Technical Movement Analysis

We look at a few foundational movements from ballet and contemporary dance, performed in bare feet. This helps us assess:

• Coordination and motor control

• Functional technique

• Awareness of body positioning

Dancers are guided through this in a supportive, encouraging environment — no performance pressure!

📈 5. Physical Maturity and Readiness

Growth patterns, skeletal development, and neuromuscular maturity are all factored into readiness. This ensures the dancer’s body is physically prepared, not just technically trained.

🛠️ 6. Identifying Restrictions and Areas for Growth

We highlight any obstacles that may affect a smooth transition into pointe work, such as:

• Anatomical abnormalities

• Joint stiffness or instability

• Imbalances or asymmetry

• Weakness in key muscle groups

These findings are used to create a clear, individualised plan for safe progression.

📋 After the Assessment

Dancers and parents receive:

• Tailored advice on how to strengthen specific areas

• Guidance on exercises or treatment to address any restrictions

• A detailed explanation of next steps, including timelines and check-in points

• A written summary or report (if requested) for teachers or dance schools

Whether the dancer is ready for pointe shoes immediately or needs a little more time, they’ll leave the session with clarity, direction, and encouragement.

💬 A Team Approach to Safe Dance Progression

We believe pointe readiness is best assessed collaboratively — with the dancer, their teacher, and our podiatry team working together. Our assessments complement in-studio training and ensure each dancer moves forward with confidence, safety, and joy.

Book Your Pre-Pointe Assessment Today

At Performance Podiatry Sydney, we’re proud to support dancers of all levels in pursuing their passion safely and sustainably. Our pre-pointe assessments are trusted by local dance schools and families, and are led by podiatrists with specialist knowledge in dance biomechanics.

📍 Sydney CBD and Darlinghurst Locations
📅 Appointments available weekly – book online or call (02) 9231 0518